Following Senator Mitch McConnell's announcement that he will not seek re-election in 2026, former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron has declared his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat. Cameron, Kentucky's first Black attorney general, shared the news on X shortly after McConnell's retirement announcement, expressing his belief that Kentucky is ready for a new generation of Senate leadership.
Cameron gained national attention for his handling of the Breonna Taylor shooting investigation during his tenure as attorney general. He also currently serves as CEO of the 1792 Exchange, a non-profit organization focused on corporate accountability.
Senator McConnell, an 83-year-old seven-term senator, confirmed he would retire at the end of his current term. He recently voted against several of President Trump's cabinet nominees but supported Kash Patel's confirmation as FBI director. NRSC Chair Tim Scott expressed confidence in the Republican party's ability to retain the Kentucky Senate seat, emphasizing the state's conservative leanings.
Cameron's potential rivals for the Republican nomination include Rep. Andy Barr, who has expressed interest in running on an "America First" platform. Entrepreneur Nate Morris is also considering a bid, criticizing candidates perceived as seeking McConnell's endorsement. On the Democratic side, Governor Andy Beshear has ruled out a Senate run, while state Rep. Pamela Stevenson is a potential contender. Kentucky typically favors Republicans in federal elections, but gubernatorial races have been more closely contested.
